There are a few areas of fireplace maintenance that many fireplace owners consider vital, and cleaning is among these. An important topic for those who want to keep their entire fireplace area clean on a regular basis: How to clean fireplace brick areas.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re here to not only offer a huge range of gas fireplace, outdoor fireplace and other fireplace options for clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, but also important services like fireplace repair and maintenance of any kind. We’ve helped many clients clean their fireplace brick areas, and we’re happy to provide expertise or even assistance here as needed. In this two-part blog series, we’ll go over everything you should know about this process, from choosing the right cleaning material to the proper steps and more.

Why Clean Fireplace Brick?

Before we get into the specifics of how to clean fireplace brick, let’s first discuss why this is an important task in the first place. There are several reasons to regularly clean your fireplace brick area:

• Aesthetics: Over time, soot and debris can build up on the bricks, leaving them looking dull and dirty. Cleaning the bricks will restore their original appearance and enhance the overall look of your fireplace.
• Safety: A buildup of creosote on the bricks can pose a fire hazard. Cleaning regularly removes this dangerous substance and reduces the risk of a chimney fire.
• Efficiency: The buildup of creosote also restricts air flow, affecting the efficiency of your fireplace. By cleaning the bricks, you’ll improve air flow and ensure your fireplace is working at its best.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Material

Before you begin cleaning, it’s important to choose the right material for the job. You should avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the bricks. Instead, opt for a gentle cleaner such as white vinegar or dish soap mixed with warm water. These cleaners are effective at removing soot and grime without causing any damage.

Our next several sections, and on into part two of our series, will go over some basic steps for cleaning your fireplace brick once you’ve selected the ideal material.

Cleaning Out Fireplace

While first ensuring that the fireplace is completely cold, begin by removing any excess debris from the fireplace. Use a shovel or brush to scoop out ashes and dust, and then use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining particles.

If your fireplace has glass doors, you can remove them and clean the inside with a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Be sure to dry the glass thoroughly before replacing it.

Wetting the Bricks

Before you begin cleaning the bricks, it’s important to wet them down with a spray bottle filled with water. This will help prevent the bricks from absorbing too much of the cleaning solution and potentially causing damage.

It will also loosen any dirt or grime that has hardened on the surface, making it easier to clean.

In part two of our series, we’ll continue discussing the steps for cleaning fireplace brick, as well as some additional tips and considerations. Remember, proper maintenance of your fireplace is crucial for both its appearance and functionality. Stay tuned for more helpful information from Comfort Solutions Fireplace, or contact us to learn about any of our fireplace products or services around SLC and other parts of Utah!